DeKalb Explores Commuter Rail Expansion in New Study

City partners with engineering firm to assess feasibility and environmental impact of connecting DeKalb to Metra service.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 10:51pm

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A stylized, geometric illustration in the Art Deco style, depicting the sweeping scale and sleek forms of a commuter rail system cutting through an urban landscape.DeKalb's ambitious plans to expand commuter rail service could transform the city's transportation landscape and regional connectivity.DeKalb Today

The city of DeKalb, Illinois has commissioned a new study to explore the potential for expanding commuter rail service to connect the city to the Metra network. The study, conducted by engineering firm TY Lin International Great Lakes, will examine rail safety, environmental and community impacts, intermodal connectivity, economic feasibility, and coordination with regional transit plans.

Why it matters

DeKalb has long sought to improve public transportation options for its residents, citing a 1,257% increase in bus ridership from 2019 to 2025. Expanding commuter rail could provide a vital link between DeKalb and job centers in the Chicago area, boosting economic opportunities and reducing car dependency.

The details

The new study will build on a previous feasibility analysis conducted in 2023, which identified potential for commuter rail service between DeKalb and the nearby city of Elburn. The current study will take a deeper dive into the planning and environmental considerations, positioning DeKalb to pursue federal funding opportunities through the FTA.

  • In 2023, the city of DeKalb conducted an initial feasibility study for commuter rail.
  • This week, the DeKalb City Council approved a consulting agreement with TY Lin International Great Lakes to carry out the new Planning and Environmental Leakages Study.
  • The city intends to use a $400,000 IDOT transit planning grant, along with $100,000 in local matching funds, to fund the new study.

The players

Cohen Barnes

The mayor of DeKalb, who expressed excitement about the progress being made to explore commuter rail options for the city.

Tracy Smith

A DeKalb City Council member and retired police officer who also works for the Voluntary Action Center, a regional transportation provider. Smith urged the council to support the commuter rail study.

Justin Carlson

A DeKalb City Council member who expressed support for the commuter rail project, noting the importance of securing available funding.

TY Lin International Great Lakes, Inc.

The engineering firm that has been tasked with conducting the Planning and Environmental Leakages Study for the Union Pacific rail corridor between Elburn and DeKalb.

Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT)

The state transportation agency that is providing a $400,000 transit planning grant to support DeKalb's commuter rail study.

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What they’re saying

“It's moving forward like a locomotive, really slow at first.”

— Cohen Barnes, Mayor of DeKalb

“This is huge that we've got [Illinois Department of Transportation] on board. [As] someone who lives in this world, this is critical.”

— Tracy Smith, DeKalb City Council member

“Like Alderman Smith said, working with IDOT half of my life, you don't wait while it's hot. If the money's out there, then you have to get it going. If not, you will be left.”

— Justin Carlson, DeKalb City Council member

What’s next

The new rail study is intended to address rail safety, environmental and community impacts, intermodal connectivity, economic feasibility, and coordination with regional plans. With council approval, the city can begin future National Environmental Policy Act processes and position itself for potential Federal Transit Administration grant opportunities.

The takeaway

DeKalb's pursuit of commuter rail expansion reflects the city's growing transportation needs and desire to provide residents with more sustainable mobility options. By partnering with IDOT and leveraging federal funding, DeKalb is taking proactive steps to improve regional connectivity and economic opportunities for its community.